Explore the captivating history and culture of Crete with the Spinalonga & Kritsa Bus Tour. Departing from popular resort areas, this immersive 6-hour journey takes travelers to the intriguing Spinalonga Island, once Europe’s last leper colony, and the picturesque Kritsa Village, showcasing the traditional Cretan way of life. With luxury transportation, guided tours, and an olive oil experience, this tour promises an enriching adventure. But the true allure lies in the stories these destinations hold, beckoning visitors to uncover the island’s fascinating past.
This experience made our list of the 3 Best Tours In Kritsa.
Key Points
- The tour offers a 6-hour immersive experience exploring Spinalonga Island and Kritsa Village, priced from $41.39 per person.
- Highlights include the well-preserved Venetian fortifications, ruins of the former leper colony, and the traditional Cretan village of Kritsa.
- Transportation is provided by luxury air-conditioned buses, with pickup services from various locations including Malia, Stalida, Hersonissos, and Gouves.
- The tour package includes the boat ticket to Spinalonga, a guided tour, a lunch box, and all applicable fees and taxes.
- Recommendations include bringing sunscreen, a sun hat, and comfortable shoes, as well as checking availability for the desired date and group size.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Malia, Stalida, Hersonissos, Gouves: Spinalonga & Kritsa Bus Tour offers an immersive 6-hour experience priced from $41.39 per person.
Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and can reserve their spot without upfront payment, allowing for flexible planning.
The tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the historic Spinalonga Island, the last leper colony in Europe, as well as the picturesque Kritsa Village known for its local weavers and lacework.
With transportation by luxury air-conditioned buses, this excursion promises an engaging and convenient way to discover the highlights of this region.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kritsa.
Spinalonga Island Highlights
Located just off the coast of Crete, Spinalonga Island boasts a rich history as the last leper colony in Europe, established in 1903 and operating until 1957.
Visitors can explore the well-preserved Venetian fortifications built in 1579, which feature impressive walls that have withstood the test of time.
The guided tour provides an immersive experience, allowing guests to wander through the ruins of the island’s former market street, hospital, and leper residences, offering a poignant glimpse into its past.
Strolling through the atmospheric ruins, travelers can imagine the lives of those who once called this island home, providing a thought-provoking and educational experience that adds depth to the overall tour.
Kritsa Village Exploration
After exploring the historical island of Spinalonga, the bus tour continues to Kritsa, a scenic hillside village known for its local weavers and lacework.
Nestled just 10 km from Agios Nikolaos in the Lasithi region, Kritsa offers visitors a glimpse into Crete’s traditional way of life.
As the tour group meanders through the narrow lanes, they’ll admire the picturesque buildings and the nearby ruins of the ancient Dorian city of Lato, dating back to the 5th-4th century BC.
The visit to Kritsa provides a refreshing contrast to the island’s more famous sites, allowing travelers to enjoy the authentic charm of a traditional Cretan settlement.
Olive Oil Park Experience
As part of the tour, visitors can enjoy a free olive oil experience at the Olive Oil Park, where they’ll learn about the rich history and production of this Mediterranean staple.
At the park, guests will take a guided tour to discover the traditional methods used to extract and refine olive oil. They’ll observe the olive press in action and sample different varieties to appreciate the nuances in flavor.
The tour also provides insight into the cultural significance of olive oil in Greek cuisine and daily life.
This educational and immersive experience complements the exploration of Spinalonga and Kritsa, offering a well-rounded understanding of Crete’s heritage and traditions.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyPickup and Transportation Details
The tour provider offers pickup services from the main road and hotel exits in Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, Analipsi, Anissaras, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Chani, and Karteros. Guests will be contacted 24 hours before the excursion with the specific pickup details. Transportation throughout the tour is provided by a luxury air-conditioned bus.
| Pickup Locations |
|---|
| Malia |
| Stalis |
| Hersonissos |
| Analipsi |
| Anissaras |
| Gouves |
| Gournes |
| Kokkini Chani |
| Karteros |
The comfortable bus ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey, allowing you to sit back and take in the scenic views as you’re transported to the tour’s destinations.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes the boat ticket to Spinalonga, a guided tour in multiple languages, a lunch box, and all applicable fees and taxes.
Plus, the Spinalonga entry fee of €8 is also covered.
Conversely, tips and personal expenses aren’t included in the tour price.
Guests can expect a comprehensive experience, with all the major costs associated with the tour covered upfront.
This allows participants to enjoy the sights and activities without having to worry about additional expenses.
The clear breakdown of what’s included and what’s not ensures that there are no surprises and that travelers can budget accordingly for their excursion.
Customer Reviews
Customers have provided a mix of feedback on the Spinalonga & Kritsa Bus Tour, with an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 3 reviews. While some praised the organization and punctuality, others expressed concerns about the limited free time at each stop, ranging from 45 to 60 minutes. To enhance the experience, the tour operator recommends bringing sunscreen, a sun hat, and comfortable shoes. Participants are also advised to check availability for their desired date and group size.
| Review Highlights | Positive | Negative |
|---|---|---|
| Organization | ✔ | |
| Punctuality | ✔ | |
| Free Time | ✔ |
Important Recommendations
To make the most of the Spinalonga & Kritsa Bus Tour, visitors should bring sunscreen, a sun hat, and comfortable shoes.
Plus, it’s important to check availability for the desired date and group size to ensure a seamless experience.
The tour includes a visit to the historic Spinalonga Island, which was once a leper colony, and the charming village of Kritsa, known for its local weavers and lacework.
With limited free time at each stop, it’s crucial to be prepared and manage time effectively to fully explore the highlights.
Following these simple recommendations will help maximize the enjoyment and value of this comprehensive tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?
Yes, you can request a private tour instead of a group tour. Private tours often offer more flexibility, personalized attention, and the ability to customize the itinerary to your preferences. Contact the tour provider to inquire about private tour options.
Are There Any Restroom or Food Stops During the 6-Hour Tour?
The tour includes a lunch box and likely has scheduled restroom and food stops, though the details are not explicitly stated. Passengers should check with the tour provider for more information on the full itinerary and any planned breaks.
Is the Tour Suitable for Visitors With Limited Mobility?
The tour may not be ideal for visitors with limited mobility, as it involves walking over uneven terrain on Spinalonga Island and navigating the narrow streets of Kritsa Village. Accessibility accommodations are not explicitly mentioned in the tour details.
Can I Extend My Stay on Spinalonga Island Beyond the Scheduled Time?
The tour’s schedule includes a guided visit to Spinalonga Island, but does not allow for extending your stay beyond the set time. Participants are encouraged to make the most of the allocated time on the island during the tour.
How Do I Get to the Pickup Locations if I’m Not Staying at a Hotel?
If you’re not staying at a hotel, you can still get to the pickup locations by public transportation or taxi. The tour provider will contact you 24 hours in advance to confirm the pickup details.
Recap
The Spinalonga & Kritsa Bus Tour offers a captivating journey through Crete’s history and culture.
Visitors can explore the former leper colony of Spinalonga, stroll through the picturesque Kritsa Village, and experience the region’s renowned olive oil.
With convenient pickup, all-inclusive pricing, and positive customer feedback, this tour is an excellent way to take in the rich heritage of Crete.
You can check if your dates are available here: